Central Alps Road Trip

Experience the beauty of the Central Alps with this amazing road trip! Starting in Saint Michel de Maurienne, France, and ending in Digne les Bains, France, this 237 km journey is perfect for those looking to explore the French countryside. Along the way, you'll pass through Briancon and Seyne, two picturesque towns with plenty of attractions to explore. This two-day road trip is best taken during the summer months, when you can experience the breathtaking landscapes and good road conditions. Be aware that seasonal road closures due to weather may occur, and some of the roads may be narrow and curvy. Despite these obstacles, this road trip is suitable for any driver and can be done on a moderate budget. Get ready to make some amazing memories and experience the unique beauty of the Central Alps.

Saint Michel de Maurienne, located in the Savoie department of the French Alps, is a great starting point for the Central Alps Road Trip. It is located close to the two major highways, the A43 and A41, that connect the area to other destinations in the Alps, such as Annecy and Chamonix. This makes Saint Michel de Maurienne an ideal starting point for a road trip. Saint Michel de Maurienne itself is a charming mountain town with plenty to see and do. It is home to some of the most spectacular views of the Alps, and the town itself is full of alpine charm. Visitors can explore the old town center, soak up the atmosphere of the local markets, or take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For visitors arriving by air, the nearest international airport is Geneva Airport (IATA: GVA). Car rental is available at the airport, making Saint Michel de Maurienne easily accessible from the airport. Overall, Saint Michel de Maurienne is an ideal starting point for the Central Alps Road Trip. With its stunning views and alpine charm, it is the perfect place to begin your journey and explore the wonders of the French Alps.

Begin your trip in Saint Michel de Maurienne, France and be ready for an unforgettable journey! This 70 km road trip will take you less than 2 hours and will lead you through Col du Galibier and to Briancon. Along the way, you will be captivated by the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and some sections are inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. There will be steep ramps, sections of winding roads, and sections of narrow roads. Enjoy the ride and take in all the sights! Don't forget to stop and admire the view of the majestic mountains. Once you reach Briancon, you will be amazed by its old-world charm. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready for an amazing journey!

Start your road trip in Briancon, France and take the beautiful 125km drive to Seyne. Along the way, you'll pass through Embrun and be able to take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. The drive should take you less than 3 hours, but be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. Make sure to keep an eye out for interesting historical sites and scenic roads. Some sections of the route may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, and some sections may be closed seasonally. You should also be aware of steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. As you make your way to Seyne, you will be able to take in the beauty of the area and find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.

Start your journey in Seyne, France and explore the 42km drive to Digne les Bains. This scenic road trip will take you less than an hour, and you can expect to see some stunning views along the way. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the seasonal road closures, so you can plan your route accordingly. During your journey, make sure to visit the beautiful village of Seyne, where you can find some unique shops and restaurants. You can also explore the stunning L'Orient Forest and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. As you make your way to Digne les Bains, you can take in the stunning views of the majestic mountains and the picturesque landscape. Digne les Bains is a beautiful town with plenty of attractions to explore, from the stunning churches to the local cafes and restaurants. For more information about the attractions, accommodation, and restaurants along the route, make sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Digne les Bains is a stunning destination in France, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It is known for its natural beauty and is the perfect ending to the Central Alps Road Trip. The town of Digne les Bains is surrounded by the spectacular Alps, making it the ideal spot to relax and take in the stunning scenery. The city is home to a variety of attractions, such as the Musée Gassendi, which is dedicated to the life and works of Pierre Gassendi, a 17th century French philosopher. In addition, the town has many restaurants, bars, and shops for visitors to explore. When it comes to outdoor activities, Digne les Bains has plenty to offer. Visitors can explore the nearby nature trails, go rock climbing in the nearby cliffs, or take a leisurely bike ride around the city. For those traveling by car, Digne les Bains is easily accessible from the nearby cities of Aix-en-Provence and Grenoble. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), located approximately 100 kilometers away. All in all, Digne les Bains is a beautiful destination in France and the perfect ending to the Central Alps Road Trip. With its stunning scenery and variety of attractions, visitors will have plenty of activities to explore in this stunning destination.

Before you set off

Set out on a mesmerizing journey through the French Central Alps, from the historical town of Saint Michel de Maurienne to the tranquil spa town of Digne-les-Bains. Covering approximately 237 kilometers, this route showcases the captivating beauty of the Alps, dotted with picturesque towns and breathtaking natural landscapes, perfect for those looking to delve into the rustic charm of the French countryside and experience the region's rich cultural tapestry.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Saint Michel de Maurienne: Begin your adventure in a town steeped in history, where you can explore heritage sites and learn about the area's role in World War I.
• Col du Galibier: Traverse one of the highest mountain passes in Europe, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Briançon: Discover this high-altitude fortified city, boasting impressive fortifications designed by the military architect Vauban, which have earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
• Serre Chevalier: Stop by one of France's premier ski resorts, which transforms into a haven for hikers and mountain bikers during the summer.
• Seyne: Be charmed by this alpine village that features traditional wooden architecture and a fortress overlooking the valley.
• Digne-les-Bains: Complete your Trip in this renowned thermal town, set against a backdrop of lavender fields and known for its healing waters and vibrant cultural scene.

Best Time to Go:

The prime time for this Road Trip is during the summer months when the weather is favorable, allowing for the full enjoyment of the alpine vistas and outdoor activities.

Potential Risks:

• Be aware of seasonal Road closures, particularly during winter, due to heavy snowfall.
• The mountainous terrain presents narrow, winding Roads that demand careful driving and full attention.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The journey can be completed on a moderate budget, with a range of affordable accommodations and dining options along the route.
• Drivers of all skill levels can navigate the route, provided they exercise caution on mountain Roads.
• This Trip offers a unique chance to engage with the region's natural wonders, from spotting wildlife to admiring wildflowers, as well as exploring its historical and cultural landmarks.

A good choice for:

Embarking on this Road Trip through the Central Alps is an opportunity to experience an unparalleled combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With the right preparation for mountainous driving conditions, travelers are in for an extraordinary and memorable exploration of one of France's most scenic regions.